KPD: Man tries to kill girlfriend by rolling SUV on I-26

A Kingsport man is alleged to have intentionally steered his vehicle into an Interstate 26 guardrail Thursday afternoon, rolling his SUV in an attempt to kill his girlfriend.

Police say the passenger suffered only scrapes and bruises in the incident, while the suspect was found to be under the influence.

At approximately 12:47 p.m., Kingsport officers responded to the crash near the I-26 interchange with I-81. Officers reportedly found a 1993 Ford Explorer had overturned after striking a guardrail.

The female passenger suffered only superficial injuries, while the driver, Gary Wilson Jr, 46, was determined to be intoxicated. He was transported to an area hospital for blood testing.

Investigation allegedly revealed the pair are dating, with an argument occurring as Wilson was driving westbound. Police say the woman reported that Wilson stated he was going to kill her — then veered his vehicle into the I-26 guardrail.

As of Thursday afternoon, Wilson, of 105 Anco Place, was charged with attempted first-degree murder, DUI, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to have insurance. An investigation into the crash is continuing.